The Return

“The Lord works in mysterious ways.” A saying that is often said, and holds a lot of truth. As I look back, even looking back at the last four years, I am not the same person I was; nor am I doing what I thought I would be doing.

Four years ago, I was a bright-eyed and niave, following my dreams and doing what I wanted. I had the aspirations of becoming a veterinarian and own my own practice. I was already a vet-tech at 18, having worked hard to get to that point.

I will save you from all the strenuous details, so fast-forward to now: I am a recent graduate of Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. I have a BA in Evangelism and Discipleship, and I am preparing myself to move to Manchester, England as a missionary for two years.

For myself, the saying, “The Lord works in mysterious ways,” is pretty much the understatement of the century. I never say myself leaving Illinois, let alone the country. Yet, the beautiful thing about the Lord’s mysterious ways, he has a way of making known the most vital parts to us as his children, even if we don’t think they are necessarily relevant at the time. (Ephesians 1:7-10)

It all began when I interned with AT3 (Alliance for Transatlantic Theological Training) last summer (2019), spending my time between the UK and Poland. I served in a small church, Emmanuel Community Church (ECC), in a borough of Manchester and it changed my life.

I fell in love with the people, the culture, and everything within the borders of this beautiful country. When my twelve-week internship had come to an end, I didn’t want to leave. And the moment that plane lifted off the ground of Manchester Airport, I immediately wanted to land the plane and go back.

The moment that will be etched into my brain forever is when Sam, who was my supervisor over the summer and attended ECC, told me these words before I left: “We [Sam and Pastor Jamie] think you should come back for two years.” They knew as well as I that AT3 offered a two-year apprenticeship and they wanted me to come back.

I had people closest to me, sharing their wisdom and what they saw in me. I had AT3 founder, Ken Lippold encourage me and speak into some of the fears I was experiencing. I had the Lord speak through various sermons and messages that confirmed I was meant to, at the very least, apply for the apprenticeship.

As you can probably imagine, my head became flooded with thoughts of excitement, fear, anticipation, and longing for the future. I went through the channels, applied for AT3’s apprenticeship, did their required assessments and was accepted. It all happened so fast, but throughout the whole process, God confirmed time and time again that he had called me to this season of life.

Now, I am preparing for the return. I will be returning to ECC, Lord-willing, mid/late August. Until then, I spend my time reaching out to friends, loved ones, and sometimes acquaintances or complete strangers, asking if they would be able to support me through prayer and/or finances. Many people have made the decision to partner with me monthly for the two years I will be in the UK; while others have given a one-time donation or have offered prayer over finances. All of these gifts have been such a blessing to me.

I have seen God work through the process of support raising. I have learned that those who support me, whatever that may look like, are partaking in the heavenly blessing and are going with me in spirit as I go to the UK as a missionary.

I have experienced moments of discouragement, yet on the flip-side of that, I have seen God use people to encourage me and speak truth into my fear and doubts. I have had people who love me so well speak truth into areas of my heart that they did not even know about.

As I eagerly wait for the return, I am also aware to remain present in this unique season; to allow the Lord to grow and nurture me in this in-between season. I have treasured these numbered yet, sweet moments with family and friends. I am thankful for an extended time to be home and fellowship with others before I step into my home-away-from-home for two long, but sweet years.

And for this blog of mine, I hope it is a window for many into what the Lord is doing in and through me. I started this blog last year when I knew I would be going to the UK for the summer. I had no idea then that I would be going onto use this blog to share my journey and experiences as I go to Manchester for two years. I am excited to begin this journey and for you to be a part of it.

“¹⁰ I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. ¹¹ I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ¹² I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. ¹³ I can do all this through him who gives me strength. ¹⁴ Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. ¹⁵ Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; ¹⁶ for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. ¹⁷ Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. ¹⁸ I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. ¹⁹ And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. ²⁰ To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” ~Philippians 4:10-20